Cheesy Vegetable Au Gratin | Lovemyinstantpot
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Cheesy vegetable au gratin

Creamed Vegetables

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Enjoy a comforting dish of creamy vegetables and melted cheese, where a velvety blend of cream cheese, milk, and Parmesan forms the base. A medley of vibrant vegetables, including sweet corn, mixed vegetables, and tender broccoli, create a harmonious mix.

Topped with golden, melted cheddar cheese, the casserole is a delightful balance of creamy and crunchy textures, perfect as a main or side dish.

You Will Need

  • 3 TBSP Butter

  • 1 Package Cream Cheese

  • 1 Cup Milk

  • 1/2 Cup Parmesan Cheese

  • 1/2 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1/2 tsp Pepper (adjust to taste)

  • 1 12oz Bag Frozen Corn (or canned)

  • 1 12oz Bag Mixed Vegetables (carrots, green beans, peas, corn)

  • 1 Heaping Cup Broccoli, Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces

  • 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese, Divided

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Optional Enhancements:

 

  • Herbs and Seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, parsley, basil, chives)

  • Fresh Garden Vegetables (corn, green beans, peas)

  • Breadcrumb Topping (breadcrumbs, melted butter, salt)

  • Cooked Protein (chicken, turkey, bacon)

  • Alternate Cheeses (Gruyère, Monterey Jack)

  • Creamy Base Variations (half-and-half, milk and heavy cream)

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Side Dish Recipes

Southern Kicked-up Green Beans

Bacon and onion Collard Greens

Calabacitas

Summer Squash Dressing

Parmesan  Buttery, Garlic Potatoes

How to make Cheesy Vegetable Au Gratin

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream cheese and whisk until smooth and well combined.

  3. Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk, creating a creamy base. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes, ensuring it doesn't boil.

  4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. If you're adding herbs and seasonings, now is the time to incorporate them.

  5. Add the frozen corn and mixed vegetables to the creamy mixture. If using fresh vegetables, lightly sauté or roast them beforehand to enhance their flavor and texture.

  6. Add the broccoli to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the creamy mixture.

  7. If you're incorporating a protein (chicken, turkey, bacon), layer it over the vegetables.

  8. Sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese over the vegetable mixture. If using alternate cheeses, now is the time to add them.

  9. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

  10. Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese or a blend of cheeses.

  11. If you're adding a breadcrumb topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the cheese layer.

  12. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly, the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the vegetables are tender.

  13. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

  14. Serve the creamy vegetable and cheese casserole as a satisfying side dish or as main course. Enjoy the flavors and textures you've enhanced to create a delightful and comforting dish.

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  1. Mexican Twist: Add a can of diced green chilies and a dash of cumin to the creamy base. Replace cheddar with pepper jack cheese and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

  2. Mediterranean Delight: Infuse Mediterranean flavors by adding sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of dried oregano. Substitute Parmesan with feta cheese and finish with a drizzle of olive oil.

  3. Asian Fusion: Introduce an Asian flair by mixing in cooked edamame, sliced water chestnuts, and a splash of soy sauce. Swap cheddar for a mild white cheese and garnish with toasted sesame seeds.

  4. Herb Garden: Enhance the dish with an array of fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary. Add a layer of thinly sliced tomatoes before baking for an extra burst of freshness.

  5. Smoky Sensation: Incorporate smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke into the creamy base for a rich smoky flavor. Use smoked Gouda cheese instead of cheddar and finish with crispy bacon crumbles.

  6. Grainy Goodness: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition. Top the casserole with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter for a hearty crust.

  7. Vegan Adaptation: Create a vegan version by using dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese. Load up on a colorful array of vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach.

  8. Southwestern Heat: Spice things up by adding diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of chipotle powder to the creamy mixture. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

  9. Italian Garden: Incorporate roasted red bell peppers, artichoke hearts, and sautéed spinach. Swap out cheddar for a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheeses, and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts.

  10. Rustic Farmer's Touch: Use diced potatoes and sweet potatoes alongside the vegetables for a hearty twist. Add grated Gruyère cheese for a nutty, savory flavor profile.

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Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your taste preferences and create exciting new flavors with this versatile recipe as your base.

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